Abstract
This study investigates the critical factors contributing to the endangerment of the Suba language in Kenya. Primarily spoken by older members of the Suba community, the language faces significant challenges driven by several interconnected factors. A literature review and ethnographic research identified four primary drivers of Suba language decline: the influence of dominant languages, cultural assimilation through integration with Luo communities, geographical dispersion, and economic migration driven by shifts in livelihood opportunities. Proposed AI-driven solutions include digital ecosystems for Suba language learning, virtual cultural repositories, and AI-enabled economic platforms. These tools aim to document Suba's linguistic heritage, foster intergenerational knowledge transfer, and empower the community economically. Additionally, AI-powered community networking platforms and localized broadcasting are proposed to bridge the geographical and cultural gaps among dispersed Suba speakers. The research suggests a strategic framework for using AI to counter these drivers of language decline, prioritizing community collaboration and cultural sensitivity. This approach aims to preserve the Suba language and offers a scalable model for safeguarding endangered languages in Kenya and beyond.
Author Information
Hesborn Ondiba, Tokyo University of Science, Japan
Paper Information
Conference: SEACE2025
Stream: Challenging & Preserving: Culture
This paper is part of the SEACE2025 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Ondiba H. (2025) Drivers of Suba Language Endangerment in Kenya and the Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Mitigation ISSN: 2435-5240 The Southeast Asian Conference on Education 2025: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 597-606) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2435-5240.2025.50
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2435-5240.2025.50
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